Tools and Materials Needed:
- Jack and jack stands
- Wheel chocks
- Lug wrench
- Socket set
- C-clamp
- Brake fluid
- New brake pads
- New brake rotors (if necessary)
- Brake cleaner
- Safety glasses and gloves
1. Safety First:
- Park your Mazda Millenia on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels.
- Make sure your car is in "Park" (for automatic transmission) or in first gear (for manual transmission).
2. Raise Your Vehicle:
- Use the jack to safely lift the front end of your vehicle.
- Place jack stands under designated jacking points to securely hold up your car.
3. Remove the Wheel:
- Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you want to replace the brakes on.
- Once loosened, use your hands or the lug wrench to remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
4. Inspect the Brake Caliper and Rotor:
- Inspect the brake caliper and brake rotor for wear or damage. The brake rotor should be smooth and free of deep grooves or cracks. If necessary, replace the brake rotor at this time.
5. Remove the Brake Pads:
- Use the socket set to remove the bolts holding the brake caliper in place. Be careful not to let the caliper hang by the brake line.
- Slide the caliper off the brake rotor and remove the old brake pads.
6. Compress the Caliper Piston:
- Use a C-clamp to compress the caliper piston back into the caliper. This will create space for the new brake pads.
7. Clean the Brake Caliper and Rotor:
- Use brake cleaner to clean the brake caliper, brake rotor, and surrounding area. Make sure to remove any dirt, grease, or old brake fluid.
8. Insert New Brake Pads:
- Insert the new brake pads into the caliper. Make sure the pads are properly seated and aligned.
9. Reattach the Brake Caliper:
- Reattach the brake caliper to the brake rotor and secure it using the bolts you removed earlier.
10. Reinstall the Wheel:
- Place the wheel back on the hub and tighten the lug nuts by hand.
- Lower your vehicle using the jack and remove the jack stands.
- Use the lug wrench to fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern.
11. Check Brake Fluid:
- Check the brake fluid reservoir and top it off with new brake fluid if necessary.
12. Test the Brakes:
- Before driving, gently apply the brakes to check for proper engagement and function. Take your car for a test drive to ensure that the brakes are functioning properly.
13. Repeat Steps 3-12 for Other Wheel(s):
- If replacing brakes on other wheels, repeat the steps described above for each wheel.
Remember that brake repairs are critical to your vehicle's safety, so if you're not confident in performing these tasks, it's best to consult with a professional mechanic or refer to a more detailed repair manual specific to your vehicle model.
